The time has come to thoroughly test the brand new, second generation of the domestic manufacturer’s popular SUV. How did the Kodiaq stand up to the roughly 2,000km test?
We will reveal right away that very well. The car is a natural evolution of the first generation, not a dizzying revolution. It takes the good from its predecessor and continues to develop it. This approach makes sense, because the first Kodiaq as Škoda Auto’s bet on a large, up to seven-seater SUV definitely paid off. It can also be seen in normal operation, but the speech of numbers is even more clear – from 2016 until the end of production this year, the Kodiaq found a total of 866,100 customers. In Europe, mostly in Germany, Great Britain and, of course, here.
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Škoda chose the right tactic in terms of design as well. Even though it’s sharper and shows a stylistic evolution of the brand’s design language, it’s still clear at first glance that we’re looking at a Kodiaq. As part of the intergenerational change, the car was not widened to the sides, but extended by six centimeters (while maintaining the length of the wheelbase). The fact that at first glance the car is not disproportionate deserves recognition, its length (4758 mm) is only noticeable when viewed from the side.
What is the range of engines? Since Škoda Auto currently has two electric models (Enyaq plus Enyaq Coupé and Elroq), the Kodiaq remains more traditional. Although there is a plug-in hybrid version of the iV (1.5 TSI, 204 hp, front-wheel drive), most sales will take place in the area of conventional, internal combustion engines. These are currently at the top of development, clean and efficient. At Kodiaq, we find a total of three. The basis is a 1.5 TSI with a power of 150 hp, which drives only the front wheels. This is followed by the 2.0 TSI with 204 hp and 4 x 4 drive and two versions of the 2.0 TDI turbodiesel. The weaker one has 150 hp (front wheel drive), the stronger one has 193 hp (4 x 4 drive). It was the last-mentioned engine that passed the demanding test.
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The interior is very spacious and nicely put together. The cockpit is dominated by displays, one in place of the instrument panel, the other sticking out of the dashboard. The graphics are beautiful and the number of features is huge. But other things are important – the rotary analog controls are back, and they are now multi-functional! Good news, Škoda Auto listened to the majority and allows us to set common things, such as the temperature, comfortably and safely. Another nice step is the ability to turn off annoying assistance systems simply and quickly on the steering wheel, which we also appreciate.
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The car is very spacious, in all three rows of seats (the car has up to seven seats). There is enough space everywhere, we also like the solution for storage spaces, charging points, etc. In the five-seater configuration, it offers an excellently accessible luggage compartment equipped with smart handles, with up to 910 liters of space. The most powerful TDI 4 x 4 pulls a trailer weighing up to 2300 kg.
The engine is, in a word, refined. Its 400 Nm of torque available in the low rev range ensures that the car weighing over 1.8 tonnes accelerates to 100 km/h in a respectable 7.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 220 km/h. You can no longer have a manual transmission in the Kodiaq, but the DSG supplied for most versions is completely fine, even the response when starting is quite pleasant. There is nothing to complain about the drive, moreover, during normal driving it can please with a consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 km.
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A big shift has occurred in the area of chassis and driving confidence. Of course, comfort is also affected by the used wheels, we would not want a tested car in the fancy twenties. Better to take, for example, 18s and have a really comfortable car that smoothly overcomes the pitfalls of the roads. It is not even necessary to have an adaptive chassis, we could do with a normal set-up. Kodiaq drives naturally, legibly, undemandingly, can be really comfortable both inside (especially with ergonomic seats) and in terms of driving experience.
The basic version of the Kodiaq in the Selection trim costs CZK 980,000, the decently equipped center with the 2.0 TSI 4×4 Exclusive Selection engine costs CZK 1,355,000, and the top version 2.0 TDI 4×4 costs CZK 1,415,000. It’s nice that Škoda has simplified the price lists and there aren’t so many extras anymore. Just choose a few practical things for, say, 100,000 CZK, and a nice Kodiaq can be yours.
Pros:
Comfortable chassis, spacious interior, heating controls.
Cons:
Harder seats, noise from 20 inch wheels.
Ah, the Škoda Kodiaq – a name that rolls off the tongue easier than a drunken karaoke rendition of “Livin’ on a Prayer.” The second generation has arrived, and after a healthy 2,000 km test, it turns out it didn’t just roll out of bed; it strutted out, looking just as velvety as the first version. It’s like when you dress up for a function: if you take what worked last time and simply breathe a little more style into it, Bingo! You’ve just attended the soirée of successful design evolution!
Now, let’s dive in, shall we? Škoda has clearly cashed in on the winning lottery ticket that was the Kodiaq’s predecessor by sticking with the tried and tested formula. A grand total of 866,100 customers didn’t just wake up and decide they wanted a feature-rich SUV; they were practically queuing up like it was the latest iPhone launch! Kudos, Kodiaq – you’ve brought families together more effectively than a Sunday roast. You know, before they start squabbling over who gets the last Yorkshire pudding.
Design-wise, it’s had a nip and tuck, much like my grandma after a questionable holiday abroad. It’s still recognizable as a Kodiaq – no identity crisis here, thank you very much. Extended by 6 cm without compromising the wheelbase? Sounds easy, but just ask anyone who’s tried to parallel park an SUV; it’s like threading a needle with a pair of oven mitts on!
As for engines, the offerings are about as versatile as a Swiss Army knife! From the 150 hp 1.5 TSI to the robust 193 hp 2.0 TDI, it seems Škoda has something for everyone, even if your driving style is more ‘grandma on a Sunday drive’ than ‘Fast and Furious.’ And for those looking to haul a trailer for their camping shenanigans, the Kodiaq can manage a whooping 2,300 kg – which is more than most of us can carry without breaking into a sweat.
Now, step inside this beauty, and you’re greeted by a cockpit that could make NASA engineers jealous. Two displays? Check! A plethora of features? Double check! And hold on, a return of rotary analog controls? It’s like they decided to throw a nostalgia party in here. Someone better bring the cake! Finally, a car that allows you to adjust the temperature without accidentally flipping through a million settings and accidentally warming your bottom to the point of spontaneous combustion.
Performance, Sweet Performance!
So, let’s talk numbers. The Kodiaq can hit 100 km/h in a mere 7.8 seconds! That’s faster than I can decide what to have for dinner. And with a fuel consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 km, it’s as if Škoda took the “thirsty SUV” stereotype and laughed in its face. A car that drives like a dream? I say yes, please and thank you! Even during normal driving, it doesn’t mimic a gas-guzzling monster. Let’s face it – the only monster we want in our lives is the friendly neighborhood one that spreads joy.
Chassis and Comfort, Sweet Chariot!
Ah, comfort. It’s vital. You want a car that glides over potholes smoother than a buttered dolphin. And the Kodiaq delivers! Adequate wheel size can make all the difference; nobody needs fancy 20-inch wheels making you feel like you’re driving over a cobbled street – this isn’t a medieval reenactment, after all. Comfort is the name of the game here, and they make it sound about as easy as ordering a Mocha Frappuccino. “Is it too much to want the sun and the moon?” you may ask. At this stage, you can have both.
So, what’s the bottom line? The Kodiaq kicks it off at CZK 980,000 and hits all the way up to CZK 1,415,000 for the top-spec version! With far fewer extras to baffle the customer and just the right amount of practicality thrown in, it seems Škoda has hit the sweet spot between price and quality almost like finding the perfect parking spot in a busy lot!
In summary, the Kodiaq isn’t just another SUV; it’s a reliable family member who knows how to have fun, gets the grandkids to school on time, and isn’t afraid to haul a vintage caravan when needed. Just watch out for those noise complaints from the 20-inch wheels, and you’re golden! Cheers to Škoda for keeping the Kodiaq as relatable as ever; it’s as if they took a peek into the family diary and realized just how loved this SUV truly is. Go Kodiaq, go!
The moment has arrived to put the newly launched second generation of Škoda’s esteemed SUV, the Kodiaq, to the ultimate test. How did it fare during an exhaustive 2,000 km evaluation?
We are pleased to announce that it performed exceptionally well. This vehicle represents a natural progression from its predecessor, refining and building upon its successful elements rather than reinventing the wheel. This method is logical, considering the first generation Kodiaq was Škoda Auto’s bold venture into the market for large SUVs, effectively catering to families and adventurers alike. The numbers speak volumes—between 2016 and the end of production this year, a remarkable 866,100 Kodiaqs were sold globally, with a strong presence in Europe, particularly in Germany and Great Britain, as well as here at home.
Škoda has cleverly approached design with this new model. While the exterior features sharper lines and a refined stylistic evolution, it’s immediately evident that this is still a Kodiaq. In this generational upgrade, rather than widening the vehicle, Škoda opted to extend its length by six centimeters, ensuring that the proportions remain visually appealing. This adjustment results in a total length of 4,758 mm, which is only perceptible from the side, maintaining an elegant and balanced profile.
In terms of powertrains, Škoda Auto largely relies on traditional options for the Kodiaq, particularly relevant since the brand has introduced two electric models: the Enyaq and the Elroq. While a plug-in hybrid variant (1.5 TSI, 204 hp, front-wheel drive) is available, the bulk of sales will come from conventional internal combustion engines, which have reached impressive levels of cleanliness and efficiency. The Kodiaq lineup features three distinct engines: the base 1.5 TSI producing 150 hp for front-wheel drive, a more powerful 2.0 TSI with 204 hp that incorporates 4×4 drive, and two versions of the 2.0 TDI turbodiesel. It was this last engine variant that passed our rigorous testing protocol with flying colors.
The interior is exceptionally spacious and thoughtfully crafted, showcasing a cockpit that is dominated by sleek displays, one replacing the traditional instrument panel and another prominently integrated into the dashboard. The graphics are stunning, complemented by an expansive range of features. Importantly, Škoda has reintroduced rotary analog controls that now serve multiple purposes, enabling drivers to manage essential functions like temperature settings in a user-friendly and safe manner. Additionally, the quick and easy method of deactivating irritating assistance systems directly from the steering wheel reflects Škoda’s commitment to user convenience.
The cabin provides ample space across all three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. Storage solutions and charging points are well thought out throughout the interior. In the five-seater configuration, the luggage compartment is impressively designed, offering a generous 910 liters of storage space, easily accessible thanks to smart handles. Moreover, the robust TDI 4×4 engine is capable of towing up to 2,300 kg, making it a versatile choice for both family outings and heavy-duty tasks.
This powertrain is nothing short of sophisticated. With a torque output of 400 Nm available at low revs, the Kodiaq, weighing in at over 1.8 tonnes, can accelerate to 100 km/h in a noteworthy 7.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 220 km/h. Though a manual transmission option is no longer available, the DSG automatic transmission provided for most variants offers commendable performance, with smooth responsiveness during acceleration. Notably, during standard driving, the vehicle manages to impress with a fuel consumption rate of just 6.5 liters per 100 km.
A significant upgrade has been made in terms of chassis performance and driving confidence. Comfort levels are enhanced further depending on the wheel choice; opting for more modest 18-inch wheels can provide a supreme level of comfort while ensuring that the Kodiaq deftly navigates rough road conditions. The Kodiaq delivers a natural and easy driving experience, promoting comfort within the cabin while providing an enjoyable handling experience.
The base version of the Kodiaq in the Selection trim starts at CZK 980,000. A more centrally equipped model featuring the 2.0 TSI 4×4 Exclusive Selection engine is priced at CZK 1,355,000, while the top-tier 2.0 TDI 4×4 variant comes in at CZK 1,415,000. It’s refreshing to see that Škoda has streamlined the pricing structure, minimizing the number of optional extras available. Customers can select a few practical features without the overwhelming complexity often found in modern vehicles, facilitating the path to owning a stylish and functional Kodiaq.
Pros:
Comfortable chassis, spacious interior, user-friendly heating controls.
Cons:
Seats may feel firm for some, noticeable noise from larger 20-inch wheels.
Le, it delivers a powerful driving experience, whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating through city traffic. The dynamic performance ensures that every trip is met with confidence, while the refined engineering contributes to a smooth ride that makes long journeys feel less taxing.
While the Kodiaq excels in many areas, it does have a few drawbacks. The seats might feel a touch firm for some, which could affect comfort on longer drives, especially if you’re used to softer alternatives. Additionally, those who opt for the larger 20-inch wheels may notice an increase in road noise, which can detract from the otherwise serene driving experience. It’s a small price to pay for aesthetics, but something worth considering when customizing your Kodiaq.
the second-generation Škoda Kodiaq embraces the essence of an SUV that knows how to balance practicality, comfort, and performance. With prices starting at CZK 980,000 and reaching CZK 1,415,000 for the fully equipped models, it finds itself in competitive territory, appealing to a wide range of buyers looking for reliability without compromising on modern features. This family-friendly vehicle has solidified itself as a household name, capable of adapting to the ever-changing needs of its drivers, much like a trusted family member that evolves as the years go by.
If you’re in the market for an SUV that effortlessly bridges the gap between everyday usability and enjoyable driving experience, the Škoda Kodiaq certainly deserves a spot on your shortlist. Cheers to Škoda for creating a vehicle that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside, and for continuing to keep families happily on the move!
